By Rama Gaind.
A tiny Australian island in the South Pacific Ocean, Norfolk Island has rightly been described as ‘360 degrees of wonder’. As far as the eye can see, Mother Nature is present in abundance within Norfolk’s every vista, defined by pine trees and jagged cliffs.
The green rolling hills, lagoon-fringed shoreline, treasure-filled rock pools, soaring seabirds and majestic and world-famous Norfolk Island pines are part of an amazing backdrop of country charm and seaside serenity ready for you to explore.
Although Norfolk Island is only 35 square kilometres in size, the protected National Park covers over five square kilometres, and offers more than eight kilometres of incredibly picturesque walking trails. The island’s botanical gardens, public reserves and designated picnic and barbecue areas are even more reason to step outside into the fresh Norfolk air.
Captain James Cook was the first to officially discover Norfolk Island, describing it as “paradise” – a term he did not use liberally in his journals. From 1788 to 1854, this paradise became a harsh penal colony and home to hapless convicts.
Today, it is home to the descendants of the Bounty mutineers whose barefoot manners, warmth and hospitality have been woven into the island’s unique and timeless rhythm – a special charm that draws visitors back time and time again.
Norfolk Island offers excitement, fun, relaxation, adventure, indulgence, culture, history and surprises for everyone to experience and enjoy.
There’s no better time than now to go over and visit … and take up Qantas on its special Norfolk Island seven-night package deal.
The green rolling hills, lagoon fringed shoreline, treasure-filled rock pools, soaring seabirds and stately Norfolk Island pines are all part of the island’s backdrop, a lovely combination of seaside serenity and country charm.
Adventures abound on Norfolk Island defined by pine trees and jagged cliffs. Sandy beaches include Emily Bay, with reef-protected waters.
Perfect escape
Norfolk Island is the perfect escape from a demanding world. The delightful switch to ‘Norfolk Time’ allows the internal clock to release the passing of each hour and frees the mind from expectation.
Everywhere you look on Norfolk Island there is something to explore. Every local has an interesting story and every artefact in the museums speaks of a past long gone but remains pivotal in the lifestyle and for the people, who call this special place home today.
It’s not long before you realise Norfolk Island buzzes with a living breathing culture and history, nature and outdoors, food and drink, places to stay and many tours, activities and events on offer.
The majestic Norfolk Island pine is world famous, though the island is also home to around sixty other plant species found nowhere else on the planet, including the world’s tallest tree fern. The birds of Norfolk are the island’s true owners.
In more recent times, Norfolk Island is becoming a food-lover’s destination: think fresh fish, succulent beef and pork and add in boutique products including coffee, honey and local cheese then think of Norfolk Island where you can enjoy the real paddock to plate experience. When it comes to culinary matters, Norfolk Islanders bring forth generations of passion and resourcefulness and their food reflects an eclectic blend of cultures and a love of sharing nature’s bounty.
It’s not long before you realise Norfolk Island buzzes with nature and outdoors, a living breathing culture and history, food and drink, places to stay and many tours, activities and events on offer.
Adventures await at every turn with the island presenting a rich history and picturesque tapestry of tranquil forests, peaceful gardens and pine-dotted meadows, surrounded by some of the deepest and most beautiful waters in the Pacific Ocean.
The green rolling hills, lagoon-fringed shoreline, treasure-filled rock pools, soaring seabirds and majestic and world-famous Norfolk Island pines are part of an amazing backdrop of country charm and seaside serenity ready for you to explore on foot via the many laid out walking tracks and on meandering roads in a colourful mini moke, on push bike or on the many 4WD tours with local guides.
Amazing backdrop
In nature’s paradise, discover White Terns fluttering overhead and Red-Tailed Tropicbirds gliding past sheer cliffs and catch sight of one of the rare Green Parrot, which can only be found on Norfolk Island. Over many years it has been under the watchful eye of local rangers and National Parks and Wildlife to ensure this beautiful species lives on. Take a trip over to nearby Phillip Island, another important breeding site for at least 12 species of seabirds.
Enjoy a refreshing swim at fabulous Emily Bay where you can also start your channel challenge to Slaughter Bay and back, snorkel at Cemetery Bay and off Salt Mill, kayak in the open waters and, for surfers, catch a reef break at Kingston.
Stories of catching four fish on one line are true, so head out on a guided charter where a feed of Trumpeter (Red Emperor) is almost guaranteed and try for Kingfish, Grouper, Snapper, Trevally, Rock Cod and Tuna.
Adventures await at every turn on Norfolk Island presenting a rich history and picturesque tapestry of tranquil forests, peaceful gardens and pine-dotted meadows, surrounded by some of the deepest and most beautiful waters in the Pacific Ocean.
Back on land, play a round of golf on a world-heritage listed nine-hole course alongside sweeping gardens of Government House, learn about the history and culture of the island in the many museums and roam through remarkable remains of the Second Penal settlement.
Stand atop Mount Pitt and marvel at the absolute 360° views as you take in all that is there for you to experience on intriguing and fascinating Norfolk Island.
Qantas Holidays is offering a seven-night Escape to Norfolk Island package including:
- 7 nights’ twin share accommodation in a standard one-bedroom self-contained apartment at Aloha Apartments
- Half-day island tour
- Return airport coach transfers
This package is priced from $489 per person twin share for stays on Norfolk Island through to 30 June 2019 for bookings until 30 November 2018. Subject to availability and blackout periods – this represents a saving of $392 per couple.
DETAILS BOX
Qantas special Norfolk Island seven-night package deal.
This package will be priced from $489 per person twin share for stays on Norfolk Island through to 30 June 2019 for bookings until 30 November 2018. Subject to availability and blackout periods – representing a saving of $392 per couple.
For inquiries within Australia, please contact Qantas Holidays on 1300 443 485 or visit www.packages.qantas.com/deals/norfolk-island-australia
